United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh has strongly protested and condemned the brutal beating and killing of three Bangladeshi citizens by a mob in Tripura, India on 15 October. This heinous act is an unacceptable and grave violation of human rights and the rule of law, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement on Friday. The government of Bangladesh expressed its serious concern over this deplorable incident and called upon the government of India to conduct an immediate, impartial and transparent investigation into the incident and take sincere efforts to stop recurrence of such inhumane acts. 3 Bangladeshi nationals ‘beaten to death’ along Habiganj border The perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice, Bangladesh said. The government of Bangladesh underscored that all individuals, irrespective of their nationality, are entitled to the full protection of their human rights, regardless of which side of the border they may inadvertently find themselves in.

Bangladesh and the Netherlands on Thursday discussed ways to enhance bilateral trade, promote investment and joint ventures and explore new opportunities for economic cooperation. The Bangladesh side underscored the importance of the Netherlands’ support in ensuring continued market access in the post-LDC graduation context, particularly under the EU’s GSP+ scheme. The issues were discussed at the 6th Foreign Office Consultations between Bangladesh and the Netherlands held in The Hague. Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam and Christiaan Rebergen, Secretary-General of Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs led their respective delegations to the consultations that took place in an ambience of longstanding friendship, mutual respect and shared values. The two sides reflected on their ongoing cooperation in water management and disaster resilience, acknowledging the Netherlands’ substantial technical expertise and the strategic importance of ‘Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100’ in shaping the country’s sustainable future. They discussed opportunities to expand collaboration in agriculture, sustainable energy, port and logistics infrastructure, shipbuilding and shipbreaking as well as digital transformation. The consultations also emphasized strengthening partnerships in education, vocational training and knowledge exchange. The two delegations exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the evolving peace process in Gaza and situation in the Middle East and the importance of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. They renewed their pledge to strengthen the UN system and accelerate climate action, emphasizing shared responsibility in confronting the global climate crisis and equitable development financing. Both delegations reviewed the full spectrum of ongoing cooperation and identified untapped potential for further engagement. Both sides also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in pursuit of shared goals of peace and development. The Bangladesh delegation thanked the Dutch Government for its support to the Interim Government, including its reform initiatives aimed at inclusive governance. The Dutch side reiterated their willingness to continue supporting Bangladesh in its efforts to consolidate democratic processes and fulfill the aspirations of its people. The Bangladesh delegation expressed appreciation for the Netherlands’ sustained support in efforts to achieve a lasting solution to the protracted Rohingya crisis. Both sides emphasized the urgent need for increased aid, justice and accountability for atrocities committed against the forcibly displaced Rohingyas as well as their early return to their homeland in Myanmar. The two sides agreed to hold the next meeting in Dhaka next year at a mutually convenient time.

Investing in climate adaptation and resilience is not a cost, it is a powerful economic strategy that can generate trillions in global economic gains, create millions of jobs, and safeguard vulnerable countries like Bangladesh, according to a report released on Thursday. The report, “Returns on Resilience: Investing in Adaptation to Drive Prosperity, Growth & Competitiveness, was unveiled by a consortium of 20 organizations led by the international group Systemiq during the World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C. It finds that every dollar invested in adaptation can yield returns equivalent to ten dollars. For countries like Bangladesh, strategic investment in climate resilience and adaptation now could protect the economy from future losses. The analysis estimates that climate resilience investment could create 28 million new jobs across developing countries by 2035. At the same time, the global adaptation market is projected to reach $1.3 trillion annually by 2030. Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, “Investing in climate resilience means protecting people and their livelihoods in the face of storms, heatwaves, and floods. It is also an urgent economic imperative: building resilience ensures that hard-won development gains are not destroyed. This is a call to world leaders to make resilience and adaptation the investment agenda of our time.” Bangladesh’s Progress and Potential The report highlights that Bangladesh has already made notable progress in priority areas of climate resilience, including climate-smart agriculture, drought- and salt-tolerant crops, mangrove restoration, embankment protection, early warning systems for cyclones and floods, resilient health systems, and water and sanitation infrastructure. Despite these efforts, the country continues to face substantial annual financial losses from rising sea levels, cyclones, river erosion, salinity intrusion, and floods. Developing countries experience ten times more damage from extreme weather than high-income nations and take four times longer to recover. If current trends continue, global GDP could decline by 18–23 percent by 2050, with particularly severe consequences for countries like Bangladesh that rely heavily on agriculture, fisheries, and coastal settlements. Investing in climate resilience could create hundreds of thousands of jobs in Bangladesh’s agriculture, construction, and infrastructure sectors by 2035. Scaling up adaptation measures could increase economic growth in developing countries by up to 15 percent by 2050, reduce foreign debt costs, and prevent up to two million avoidable deaths annually through improved water, health, and sanitation systems. Financing Gap Remains a Major Challenge The report warns that achieving global climate resilience requires $350 billion in annual investment by 2035. Currently, only $54 billion is being invested, leaving a $296 billion gap. For every $1 invested in resilience, $87 is still being spent on infrastructure vulnerable to climate risks. Dr. Pep Bardouille, Climate Advisor to the Prime Minister of Barbados and Director of the Bridgetown Initiative, said, “Resilience is the bedrock of prosperity, yet it remains the most undervalued investment of our time. Our investment policies still constrain this sector. COP30 must be a turning point—to rewrite the rules, recognize the real returns of resilience, and unlock the financing that vulnerable countries need.” The report sends a clear message: for Bangladesh and other vulnerable nations, acting now on climate resilience is both an economic opportunity and a safeguard for lives, livelihoods, and future growth.  

The bodies of three men from Habiganj, brutally hacked and beaten to death in India’s Tripura state, were handed over on Thursday evening through Balla Land Port in Chunarughat Upazila. Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), India’s Border Security Force (BSF), and police officials from both countries were present during the handover, confirmed Habiganj Battalion (55-BGB) and Chunarughat police. The deceased are Pandit Mia, 30, son of Kona Mia of Basulla area in Gazi­pur Union; Sajal Mia, 60, son of Quddus Mia of Kabilaspur; and Juel Mia, 40, son of Ashrab Ullah of Alinagar. According to 55-BGB, the three Bangladeshis had crossed into India from the border area of Vidyabil in Sreemangal Upazila, Moulvibazar, two to three days ago. BGB won't tolerate any more 'push-ins' by India's BSF: Regional Commander Local Indian residents allegedly attacked them on suspicion of cattle theft, hacking and beating them to death. Their bodies were later kept at Sampahar police station in the Khowai area of Tripura state. The handover was completed under the supervision of border and law enforcement authorities from both Bangladesh and India.    

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma on Thursday spoke about the enduring spiritual and cultural bond between India and Bangladesh, as reflected in the life and music of Fakir Lalon Shah. Speaking at a musical evening titled “Lalon Sandhya” the High Commissioner noted that Lalon’s philosophy of inclusion, harmony, compassion and humanity transcends national borders and continues to inspire both nations in their shared cultural journey.   To commemorate the 135th Death Anniversary of Fakir Lalon Shah, High Commission of India through the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre, organized the musical evening. The programme, held at the Liberation War Museum Auditorium, also paid rich tribute to the Queen of Lalon Geeti Farida Parveen.  

October4128 (BD) Ltd., a Chinese-owned company, signed an agreement on Thursday with the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA) to invest US$ 19.72 million in establishing a high-end garments manufacturing facility at the BEPZA Economic Zone (BEPZA EZ) in Mirsharai, Chattogram. Member (Investment Promotion) Md. Ashraful Kabir signed on behalf of BEPZA, while Managing Director of October4128 (BD) Ltd Mohammed Taufikul Ahsan represented the company. The agreement was signed at the BEPZA Complex in Dhaka in the presence of Executive Chairman of BEPZA Major General Mohammad Moazzem Hossain, according to a press release. The factory will produce 3 million pieces annually of ski, snow sports, hunting and motor rider’s gear, insulated winter coats, down jackets and pants, rain gear, workwear, running wear, yoga wear, and water sportswear. The investment is expected to create employment for 2,788 Bangladeshi nationals. Major General Moazzem Hossain thanked the company for choosing BEPZA EZ and assured full support for their operations. BEPZA to get USD 18.60 million investment by airplane amenity bag making company With this agreement, a total of 49 companies have now committed to invest approximately US$ 1.08 billion in BEPZA EZ. Six companies have already commenced production, reinforcing BEPZA EZ’s reputation as a prime destination for both local and foreign investors. The signing ceremony was also attended by key BEPZA officials and representatives from October4128 (BD) Ltd.  

Ambassador of Switzerland to Bangladesh Reto Renggli on Thursday invited leaders of the youth-led political party - National Citizen Party (NCP) to a lunch meeting at the Swiss Residence. He listened to their views on the current political developments, democratic reforms, and the upcoming national elections in Bangladesh. Switzerland will continue to stand by Bangladesh in its pursuit of a democratic, stable, and prosperous future for its citizens, said the Embassy. NCP leaders Akhter Hossen and Dr Tasnim Jara were, among others, present.

Bangladesh and the United States have discussed regional and global relations, electoral processes, risks of disinformation and the importance of maintaining open, direct channels of communication. Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi held a meeting with US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia and the US Ambassador-designate to India Sergio Gor at his office in the West Wing of the White House on Wednesday and discussed the issues. The meeting builds upon a recent dialogue between Ambassador Gor and Chief Adviser Prof Yunus, which took place in New York on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in late September, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Thursday. Lutfey Siddiqi expressed gratitude for the warm reception and extended appreciation for the productive and wide-ranging discussions held during the meeting. NCP demands justice, compensation for Mirpur fire victims Ambassador Gor, recently confirmed as the United States Ambassador to India, and Siddiqi exchanged views on several key areas, including trade and investment cooperation, economic and governance reforms like labour market development. Lutfey Siddiqi conveyed appreciation for Ambassador Gor’s kind remarks regarding the Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and reaffirmed Bangladesh’s commitment to deepening bilateral and regional partnerships. He also extended an invitation to Ambassador Gor to visit Dhaka in the near future.  

Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Bangladesh Michael Miller on Thursday said “Shoktikonna” is part and parcel of their work in Bangladesh - to support women's empowerment, maximise growth potential, involve young people in decision-shaping and promote a green transition. “The EU stands shoulder to shoulder with Bangladesh at this important moment of transition, providing EUR 3.7 billion for energy and climate,” he said. The Ambassador was speaking at the Green Skills Summit 2025, organised as a part of Shoktikonna Leadership Cohort. It brought together more than 200 participants from across Bangladesh’s sustainable energy sectors to celebrate and accelerate women’s leadership in the country’s green transition. The summit marked a major step forward in connecting education, industry, and policy toward an inclusive green energy transition. Shoktikonna Leadership Cohort is a platform developed to empower young women aspiring to build careers in Bangladesh’s sustainable energy sector. Now in its third cohort, more than 100 young women in STEM fields have already graduated from Shoktikonna, many of whom are now working in renewable energy, clean technology, and environmental management roles. The third cohort is supported by the European Union in Bangladesh, German development cooperation, and The World Bank, and implemented by GIZ Bangladesh and Devtale Partners. Building on the success of earlier Shoktikonna cohorts, this year’s summit showcased the tangible results of the initiative’s mission to bridge gender gaps in Bangladesh’s energy and sustainability workforce.  

In a stunning shift in global military power, India has leapfrogged China to claim the title of the third most powerful air force in the world, reports Newsweek. While the United States continues to dominate, followed by Russia, India’s rise signals a dramatic recalibration in Asia’s strategic balance, the report said. China, long considered a major air power, now ranks fourth. The latest World Directory of Modern Military Aircraft (WDMMA) rankings cover 103 countries and 129 air services—including army, navy, and marine aviation branches—and track a total of 48,082 aircraft worldwide. Newsweek has reached out to the State department as well as the Foreign Ministries of China and India for comment. Why It Matters Air power remains a decisive factor in global military strategy. The United States continues to lead, with its air capabilities surpassing the combined fleets of Russia, China, India, South Korea, and Japan. This dominance is supported by nearly 40 percent of global military expenditure concentrated in the United States. At the same time, nations such as India and China are rapidly modernizing their air forces amid rising geopolitical tensions. Janes, a leading global open-source defense intelligence provider, projects that global defense spending could rise by 3.6 percent by the end of the year, reaching approximately $2.56 trillion. This continued growth reflects intensified conflicts and strategic realignments worldwide, emphasizing the crucial role of air power in both modern warfare and international deterrence. What To Know India's air force now ranks sixth globally, with a TruVal Rating (TVR) of 69.4. This rating evaluates not only the quantity of aircraft but also factors such as attack and defense capabilities, logistical support, modernization and operational training. In its fleet of 1,716 units, India maintains a balanced force composition: 31.6 percent fighters, 29 percent helicopters, and 21.8 percent trainers. The Indian Air Force (IAF) sources its equipment from a diverse range of countries, including the U.S. and Russia, reflecting its complex geopolitical positioning. The operational effectiveness of India's air force was notably demonstrated during Operation Sindoor, a series of precision strikes carried out in May on infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Conducted in response to the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, the operation showcased India’s ability to swiftly engage and neutralize threats beyond its borders. The mission underscored the IAF’s enhanced precision, coordination and strategic reach, reflecting its growing air superiority in the region.